.png)
In the international gem and jewelry industry, the term "Fancy Diamond" signifies a class of diamonds of exceptional character. However, the meaning of "Fancy" is twofold, encompassing both the breathtaking world of color and the distinctive realm of unique shapes. As the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA), we present this definitive guide, referencing globally recognized gemological institutions, to provide a clear and accurate understanding of these remarkable gems.
The term "Fancy" as applied to diamonds is principally divided into two distinct categories: Fancy Color and Fancy Shape. It is crucial to understand that these terms are not interchangeable.
.png)
The most prominent and widely understood meaning of "Fancy Diamond" refers to diamonds with a natural body color other than light yellow or brown. In the standard D-to-Z color grading scale for colorless diamonds, the presence of yellow or brown tints typically diminishes value. For Fancy Color diamonds, the opposite is true: the more vivid, intense, and pure the color, the greater their rarity and value.
The Geological Origins of Color
The stunning hues of Fancy Color diamonds are the result of rare and complex geological conditions during their formation billions of years ago. Key factors include:
Trace Elements: The presence of elements other than carbon within the diamond's crystal lattice.
Nitrogen: The cause of yellow and orange hues.
Boron: Responsible for the rare and coveted blue color.
Structural Anomalies: Immense pressure deep within the Earth can distort the crystal lattice, causing the diamond to absorb certain wavelengths of light and produce pink, red, and brown colors.
Natural Radiation: Prolonged exposure to natural radiation from surrounding host rocks can alter the crystal structure, resulting in a green coloration.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades Fancy Color diamonds based on three primary attributes:
Hue: The diamond's primary color (e.g., Pink, Blue, Yellow).
Tone: The relative lightness or darkness of the color.
Saturation: The strength and intensity of the color.
The intensity of color is described by a scale ranging from Faint, Very Light, Light, Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Intense, Fancy Vivid, Fancy Deep, to Fancy Dark. Among these, Fancy Vivid is typically the most sought-after and valuable grade, signifying the highest level of color saturation.
Due to their extreme rarity, Fancy Color diamonds are considered a significant alternative investment asset, with red, blue, and pink diamonds being particularly prized by collectors and investors worldwide.
.png)
Beyond color, the term "Fancy" is also used to describe any diamond shape that is not the standard Round Brilliant Cut. Consequently, a "Fancy Shape" or "Fancy Cut" diamond refers to the entire spectrum of non-round shapes.
Each fancy shape possesses a unique character and charm, offering a way for individuals to express their personal style and taste. Globally popular fancy shapes include:
Princess Cut: A square shape with sharp, uncut corners, delivering brilliant sparkle comparable to a round cut but with a more modern aesthetic.
Emerald Cut: A rectangular shape with cropped corners, featuring step-cut faceting. It exudes an aura of classic elegance and is celebrated for its clean, glassy clarity.
Cushion Cut: A square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, reminiscent of a pillow. It offers a vintage, romantic appeal and is excellent at maximizing sparkle.
Oval Cut: An elongated version of the round brilliant, which can appear larger than its carat weight and has a flattering, lengthening effect on the finger.
Pear Shape: A distinctive hybrid of the Round and Marquise cuts, with a single point and a rounded end, offering a unique and elegant silhouette.
Marquise Cut: A boat-shaped cut with pointed ends, which maximizes carat weight and creates the illusion of a larger stone.
Radiant Cut: A fusion of the Emerald cut's silhouette and the Round cut's brilliant faceting. Its cropped corners and intense sparkle make it a durable and dazzling choice.
Heart Shape: The ultimate symbol of love, this technically demanding cut requires exceptional skill and symmetry from the lapidary.
It is critical for international buyers to know that the GIA does not assign an overall Cut Grade to fancy-shaped diamonds in the way it does for standard Round Brilliants. Instead, their reports grade Polish and Symmetry. Therefore, assessing the beauty of a fancy shape is a more nuanced process, relying on visual inspection and an understanding of its ideal Length-to-Width Ratio.
In summary, the term "Fancy Diamond" holds two specific and distinct meanings within the global gemological trade:
Fancy Color: Refers to naturally colored diamonds outside the D-to-Z scale, whose value is determined by the intensity, purity, and rarity of their hue.
Fancy Shape: Refers to any diamond cut other than the standard Round Brilliant, offering a diverse array of styles to suit individual preferences.
For precise and professional communication, it is essential to specify whether one is referring to "Fancy Color" or "Fancy Shape," thereby ensuring clarity and fostering confidence in every transaction.
Confused between Platinum and White Gold for your jewelry? Our complete guide breaks down the essential differences in composition, purity, natural color, durability, weight, cost, and long-term care. Make an informed decision and choose the perfect metal
Unlock your business potential. Compare TGJTA's operational benefits (VAT/Duty-Free) with BOI's investment incentives (tax holidays). Make an informed strategic decision to drive global growth.
